The midfielder missed Saturday's victory over Celta Vigo with a leg injury, sustained in Germany's 6-1 win over the Republic of Ireland, but his swift recovery has come at the perfect time with Jose Mourinho's side suffering an injury crisis.

The Portuguese coach had further reason for optimism on Monday with the news that Brazilian defender Marcelo's operation on a broken bone in his foot was a success, though his injury is likely to keep him out of action for three months.

Such has been the number of absentees, midfielder Michael Essien was forced to play left-back at the weekend, with youngster Raphael Varane drafted in to occupy the opposite full-back berth.

Los Blancos head into Wednesday's encounter sat in first place in Group D, on six points, after recording victories over Manchester City and Ajax.